Petroleum Minister to lead Indian delegation to Mexico & Columbia

A delegation led by Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Petroleum & Natural Gas, is to visit Mexico and Columbia on Monday to foster mutual cooperation in the area of hydrocarbons and to seek long-term linkages for the nation’s energy security. During the visit, Shri Pradhan will meet his counterparts as well as leaders of the hydrocarbon industry in both the Latin American countries.  The Indian delegation comprises senior ministry officials, chairman of IndianOil, MD of ONGC Videsh Ltd., and <g data-gr-id="14">senior</g> official from <g data-gr-id="15">director</g> general of hydrocarbon.

The visit of the Indian delegation is important in the wake of the economic and demographic growth  of India, which has caused a spurt in its energy requirements necessitating increased imports and energy partnerships with important hydrocarbon producing countries.  ONGC Videsh has 7 oil and gas blocks in Colombia and India imports about 10 <g data-gr-id="13">Mmt</g> of crude oil from these two countries.